Arsenal strolled their way to a comfortable 2-0 win over Brighton on Sunday thanks to a goal each from Nacho Monreal and Alex Iwobi.
Arsenal have looked reinvigorated since their 4-0 defeat to Liverpool. And on Sunday, the Gunners added three more points to their Premier League tally with a comfortable 2-0 win against Brighton. The Emirates was treated to a decent game of football as Arsenal never looked in deep trouble despite Brighton’s attempts.
We at The Hard Tackle take a look at each of the Gunners’ individual performance in the 2-0 win on Sunday.
Petr Cech – 6.5
The veteran did not have much to do, making a solitary save throughout the 90 minutes. But, he was a solid presence at the back and will have been glad to get another clean sheet under his belt.
Rob Holding – 7.5
One of the players that had been the subject of criticism from fans of late. But, Holding seems to be becoming a favourite for Wenger, who definitely likes his type of ball playing defenders. Also, the player is a great presence at the back, especially playing as a wide centre-back in a 3-man backline.
The player was comfortable on the ball and off it. Growing in stature.
Shkodran Mustafi – 7.5
If Holding was top notch, Mustafi was perhaps the same, if not better during the game. In fact, the whole performance from Arsenal was very good in terms of defensive structure and Mustafi, playing in the centre of the 3-man defence was the focal point of it.
Nacho Monreal – 9.0
Nacho Monreal was the only player in the Premier League this weekend to complete 100+ passes.
101 to be exact. ? pic.twitter.com/wAahBQGmOV
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) October 2, 2017
One of the undisputed stars of not just the fixture at Emirates but in recent times, in general. Arsene Wenger’s decision to play Monreal as a wide centre-back seems to have done wonders for the Spaniard’s confidence. Had the ball more than any other Arsenal player on Sunday and looked to be in control throughout.
Also, Monreal’s goal helped break the deadlock after a scrap in the box. But, it was the finish that mattered. Goal aside, Monreal was the best player on the pitch by some distance.
Hector Bellerin – 7.0
Bellerin is starting to prove his form and come into his old self. The Spaniard has taken time in adapting to the wing-back role but seems to have got a firm grip on it now.
Aaron Ramsey – 7.0
The Welsh midfielder was his usual self and dispossessed just once throughout the game. Spread the ball nicely across the field and linked up well with his teammates.
Granit Xhaka – 7.0
Wenger seems to have found his midfield duo in Ramsey and Xhaka. The two complement each other well and the same was on display on Saturday. Looked tidy on the ball. Another good outing.
Sead Kolasinac – 7.5
Another solid outing for the Bosnian.
Alex Iwobi – 8.0
The youngster covered for the absence of Danny Welbeck brilliantly, running channels in similar manner while also cutting inside every now and then to make space for Bellerin to run into. Was a threat to Brighton throughout and topped it off with a goal. Growing in confidence.
Alexis Sanchez – 9.0
Alexis Sanchez for Arsenal vs. Brighton:
Most shots (8)
Most chances created (6)
Most take-ons (4)Always wanting the ball. pic.twitter.com/jjREhmbBzr
— Squawka Football (@Squawka) October 1, 2017
That assist from Alexis Sánchez should count as 3-0.#ARSBHA #Arsenal pic.twitter.com/SRp1tk50EF
— fuboTV (@fuboTV) October 1, 2017
Another player that shined brightly. Alexis Sanchez did not get on the scoresheet but his assist for Alex Iwobi was mesmerising and showed just how good the Chilean can be on his day. Tormenting the Brighton defence while also creating chances for his teammates, Alexis Sanchez was a bright spark on Sunday.
Alexandre Lacazette – 8.5
Was good throughout the game and unlucky to hit only the post from a venomous volley in the first half.
Substitutes
Olivier Giroud – 6.0
Was decent after coming on Lacazette.
Theo Walcott – 6.0
Again, like Giroud, did nothing of much significance but did not commit any mistakes either.
Mohamed ElNeny – N/A
Came on late for Granit Xhaka to provide some fresh legs in the midfield.
